10 Jun 2014
Each year, at its AGM, SCI presents Distinguished Service Awards. The awards celebrate the hard work and goodwill of longer-serving members from all component parts of the Society. They recognise time given as volunteers to organise conferences, edit or peer-review the material published in our journals, share enthusiasm, or lend leadership and vision to sustain regional or technical group activities.
This year, SCI is pleased to present a Distinguished Service Award to Mr Christopher Drew for his conscientious and diligent work on behalf of the Society.
When and how did you become a member of SCI?
In October/November 1984, following the recommendation of my predecessor as Director of SORIS and in order to obtain fee reductions at conferences (but never managed to take advantage!)
Why did you decide to get involved in committee work?
In 1984 to widen my network of contacts and follow up subjects of interest.
In 2000s to exploit my ability to suggest speakers and 'fixers' for any topic.
What has driven your continued involvement?
Working with an extraordinarily energetic Chairman (Peter Reineck of SEG, who was also the prime mover behind the revived Y&H Group).
How has being involved in SCI activities had an impact on your professional career?
Difficult to judge. Nothing obvious – but I cannot imagine trying to run an information service without being a member of SCI.
How do your SCI activities reflect your personal/professional interests?
SCI exactly matches my interests – 'how do you make money with chemistry?'
What motivates to you to participate in SCI activities?
The hope and expectation of meeting people with problems and being able to direct them towards a provider of solutions.
How do you think that your contribution has helped shape SCI?
I doubt if I have stimulated any changes in SCI, but I hope I have managed to maintain the momentum of its structure and allow others the time to think about redesigning SCI for the future.
What are your thoughts about receiving a Distinguished Service Award?
Surprise and pride, tinged with embarrassment because there are surely others who have done far more for the Society.
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